Labour Of Love - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

A 'labour of love' is a task or project done out of passion and personal enjoyment, not for money or obligation. It's driven by genuine affection and interest. Think of it as the opposite of a dreaded chore. It could involve creating art, volunteering, or restoring an old car. For instance, a musician composing songs purely for the joy of it is engaged in a 'labour of love'. The effort invested is fueled by pleasure and satisfaction.

Etymology

The phrase 'labour of love' is a modern idiom that highlights the emotional investment in a task. 'Labour' stems from the Latin word 'labor,' denoting effort and work. 'Love' originates from the Old English 'lufu,' indicating deep affection and care. Together, they signify that the work is undertaken with affection, making the effort feel more rewarding than burdensome. The expression emphasizes personal fulfillment over material gain.

Related Words

Examples

  • "Gardening is her labour of love; she spends hours tending to her plants."
  • "Writing poetry is his labour of love, even though he doesn't publish it."
  • "Restoring antique furniture is a labour of love for him."
  • "Creating personalized gifts for her friends is a true labour of love."

Anecdote / Story

Consider a gamer spending countless hours building intricate worlds in Minecraft. That's a labour of love! They're not getting paid; they're simply immersed in the creative process, crafting something amazing out of sheer passion. The time commitment and dedication reflects their love for the game. It shows how work can be driven by enjoyment and personal fulfillment.

Encouragement

Find your 'labour of love' and dive in headfirst! 🎉 Pursue activities that make you feel alive and bring you joy. The effort will be worth it, and you'll find fulfillment in unexpected ways. Embrace your passions, and let them guide you. You got this! 🚀

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